'It's hard to justify Labour link now...'

Unite's Sharon Graham wants a major rethink by Labour

- BY LIZZY BUCHAN Political Editor and DAVE BURKE Political Correspondent

THE leader of one of Labour's biggest union backers has accused the party of abandoning its roots and warned it could pull its support.

Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham said the government is failing to connect with workers on a day when Labour heavyweights Andy Burnham and Dame Emily Thornberry also hit out at leader Keir Starmer.

Speaking as the Trades Union Congress opened in Brighton yesterday, Ms Graham told the Mirror: "There is a feeling by me, by my members, by workers across the board, that Labour is moving so far away from Project Labour that it's hard to justify being affiliated to them.

"They may not think that's a problem but it will be a problem."

Unite backed a motion to potentially rethink its relationship with Labour in July 2026, which could involve cutting ties - and funding.